NASSCO Christens USNS Ship

The christening ceremony for the USNS John L. Canley in San Diego. Photo courtesy of U.S. Navy.

San Diego-based shipbuilder General Dynamics NASSCO on June 25 christened the USNS John L. Canley, the fourth vessel for the U.S. Navy’s reclassified Expeditionary Sea Base (ESB) program.

ESB vessels are mobile sea bases with platforms made to support various missions including Air Mine Counter Measures and Special Operations Forces, according to the company.

In addition to NASSCO officials, the celebration included Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Michael E. Langley, U.S. Navy representatives and Patricia A. Sargent, the ship’s sponsor, who is John L. Canley’s daughter.

The 784-foot ship is named after a Medal of Honor recipient who in 1968 rescued more than 20 Marines under enemy fire during the Battle of Huế City in Vietnam. Canley was also honored with the Bronze Star with Combat “V” and the Purple Heart.

In his remarks, General Dynamics NASSCO President Dave Carver called Canley a true hero.

“This ship represents his courage, selflessness, and strength,” he said. “On behalf of the 3,500 men and women of General Dynamics NASSCO, I am proud to present the USNS John L. Canley for christening.”

The John L. Canley features a 52,000 square-foot flight deck that can assist MH-53, MH-60, MV-22 tilt-rotor and H1 aircraft operations.

By Karen Robes Meeks